Forestry
The mission of the Forestry Section is to set the professional standard for municipal forestry by maintaining the landscape aesthetics of the community at a level exceeding all other municipalities in the country. We will continue to provide effective communication to the residents, city employees, city boards and developers with the respect to landscaping, tree planting, tree preservation, tree care and the enforcement of the Lake Forest City Code to help protect and preserve Lake Forest’s Urban Forest for present and future generations. The Forestry Section oversees many programs that contribute to maintaining the City's Tree City USA Certification, and also help in educating the community through special programs such as Arbor Day and Earth Day.Tree PreservationThe Forestry section and other City departments are committed to preserving and promoting the aesthetics of our community. The purpose of The City’s Tree Preservation Ordinance is to preserve trees on both public and private property and, in the event that tree removal is necessary, to ensure that appropriate replacement trees are planted. The ordinance is also intended to:
- minimize erosion and storm water runoff
- provide buffers between neighboring properties
- preserve historic streetscapes
- minimize the visual and environmental impacts of paved surfaces and buildings
- ensure landscaping in conjunction with new development and redevelopment in a manner that preserves native vegetation
INSECT & DISEASE UPDATES
Public Tree Inventory
Sidewalk ClearingAlthough residents are required to maintain their plant material around the City sidewalks, the City maintains nearly seven miles of undeveloped sidewalk easements in order to provide a safe environment for walkers and bicyclists. If you notice a safety concern on or around any City sidewalk, please call 847-810-3564.
Additional Resources
- US Forest Service
- The Morton Arboretum
- Chicago Botanic Garden
- USDA, Forest Service, Northeastern Area Website
- USDA, Forest Service, North Central Research Station Area Website
- Trees Recommended for Lake Forest Landscapes
Forestry Section800 N. Field Drive
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Phone: 847-810-3564
Supervisor: Corey Wierema